Simon de Jong Obituary
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71 Entries
Jim Slade
September 17, 2011
"If you're goin' to kick yourself, wear slippers..." Thus was Simon's suggestion at a trying time of my youth, around 1974 when I met him with my dad, an educator-film-arts-alternatives supporter when Simon I believe was involved with Cool Aid, among other projects. Only a few words during a brief encounter, yet their impress has remained with me since. Thank you Simon.
Andrew Johncey
September 16, 2011
I was very fortunate to have met Simon at a family day at Christmas of 2008. He was friendly and very welcoming of me marrying his niece Elicia a few days later. Before leaving he and the family wanted to show me a west coast feast. What a feast! I wish I had more time to get to know him. I am amazed at what he has accomplished, I am filled with gratitude for his influence with my family.
The Waltons
September 13, 2011
We remember very well the de Jong family who had a cottage at Lumsden Beach shortly after they arrived in Regina.
There we saw a 10 or 11 year old Simon delivering rousing political speeches while dealing with a lively group of young hecklers. We were the first to witness the honing of his orating skills!
Our family sends our heartfelt sympathy to the extended de Jong family for their loss.
The Waltons
Rose Blanche Oliveira
September 12, 2011
I am happy to had a chance to know you,to be closed and loved you.
all my kind fine thoughts for you and your family and friends.Your last foto is like our fonne call conversation Smilling BUDA and across to with a new conscience,in there your suite voice,You are unforgettable.Simon you isn´t die,just leaved first.
My gratitude,GOD BLESS YOU and US
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Francesca Binda
September 12, 2011
Simon taught me that politics can, and should, be a noble contest of ideas with respect and compassion for all involved. He lived his beliefs, even if and when they were not popular, always staying true to himself. With very fond memories. May his next journey be all he hoped for.
Marie-Lynn Hammond
September 11, 2011
Deep condolences to Simon's friends and family. The world has lost a very fine human being, but his spirit will surely live on. I will especially remember his warm smile...
Evan Lloyd
September 10, 2011
Hearing the terrible news of Simon's death was one of those moments that richochets memory through so many different places. I had the privilege to know Simon in several of his many incarnations - at the USSR, his early political work in Regina, his loft at the Northern Crown, later in Vancouver, back to Saskatchewan and his first improbable and successful campaign, and then again in Ottawa, together again. What's remarkable is, that throughout each stage Simon never lost any sense of what he was seeking and fighting for.
The world needs more Simons.
Adrian Morrison
September 10, 2011
Dear Micah and Justin,
We shared many years together and some great memories. Your father was a kind and loving person with numerous talents. He will be missed. He did his best to try and change this world for the better. Marlene sends her love.
Love Adrian
Jim Harding
September 10, 2011
I have "a book" inside me about Simon and the rest of the DeJong clan, from when they came to Regina, when I was in elementary school. Simon and I were friends through an early CCF youth club in Regina, at Central High School, Regina College, on the West Coast in the late 60's, when he was MP for Regina Victoria where we lived, and after; right up to the end. I already deeply miss our "regular" conversations, which seemed to happen when Simon was entering yet another track in his life. Like a younger brother, a gentle comrade without arms; another free spirit; and much more. My deepest love for the family and friends. Jim Harding, Fort San, SK
Dwight Carroll
September 9, 2011
Wow! the last time I saw Simon was as student at U of R(USSR). Simon always raised a level of awareness for us all, whether it was at the great sausage factory as head of the student union or as a MP in Ottawa. I also remember his early political champaigns and how hard everyone worked including his family to get him elected. We have to be thankful for him as change would never happen perhaps too slow for him but at least change did happen. Rest in peace Simon.
Shelagh Huston
September 9, 2011
"Condolence" sounds too stiff and formal, until I remember that it means 'sorrowing together'. I sorrow with Simon's family and friends, and remember him with great fondness from our days at university together. As a young man, he showed the long view, the idealism and vision, the gusto for living, and the commitment to make the world a better place, that characterised him throughout his life. May his onward journey through the place beyond time be as fruitful as his stay here on earth.
Bill Graham
September 9, 2011
I remember Simon with great fondness and now in grief. He was artist, explorer, teacher, idealist, humanist, realist all in one kind compassionate package: an incredible legacy. He will be remembered and missed. Let him also serve as a model of how to be in the world.
Malcolm French
September 8, 2011
Here is the link to my blogpost which discusses both Simon and Jack. I am glad to have been an active volunteer on the campaigns were each of them was first elected to public office.
http://simplemassingpriest.blogspot.com/2011/08/give-rest-o-christ-to-your-servants.html
José Nunez-Melo
September 8, 2011
To the family,
It is with great sadness that we have learn of Simon's passing. A great politician, he will certainly continue to be a source of inspiration for the future.
All of our thoughts are with you at this time and we hope it can bring you some comfort during this difficult time.
José Nunez-Melo and his team
Gerie de Jong
September 7, 2011
Dear Canadian family,
I'm sorry for your loss of Simon. You must be very sad. Specially you have lost so many beloved ones in the last few years: Hielke, tante Dick and now Simon.
I remember him being busy and making the world a better place. But he liked to laugh and he liked a good glas of wine! I think he embraced life.
My thougths and prayers are with you. Take care of each other.
Kisses.
Peter Moogk
September 4, 2011
The depressing news of Simon's death brought back memories of our time at Central Collegiate and at Regina College in 1959-63: chess, the debating society, listening to records by Pete Seeger and the Weavers and ones by Mariam Makeba, peace marches, the film society, art shows at the Norman Mackenzie Gallery, earnest discussions about Africa and the Middle East in a smokey coffee house, dreams of a better world, and reading Beat poetry ["Howl"] bought at the 11th Avenue bookstore.
Nelleke van Sliedregt
September 4, 2011
Our condolences to our nephew Simon.
Some years after the second world war he left our land. He build a new life in Canada and he was a very respected man in his new land. Simon , rest in peace.
Nelleke & Chris
Reggie Baker
September 3, 2011
Saddest condolences to all of Simon's friends and family.
While some wear their hearts on their sleeves, Simon wore his soul. Proudly.
Thank you Simon - for being you.
In loving memory.
Reggie
Anil Gorania
September 2, 2011
Rest in peace my dear, wonderful friend. You gave so much more than you asked. I often called you to seek your advice during the toughest times of my life. You calm, steady voice held me true. You are my guide and my role model. I will miss, and remember you. You live in your sons, in me and all those who remember you.
Joanne Crofford
September 2, 2011
Simon is the one who interested me in the "policy" of politics. His artistic ability and his warm interest in others created a very special and unique personality that we will miss in this world. Joanne Crofford, former MLA, Saskatchewan
September 1, 2011
My sincerest sympathy to the deJong family at this very sad time. Our connection through Simon's amazing mother as well as the Lumsden Beach "cottage" was special and I always admired Simon's great efforts to make the world a bettter place. I regret that I will be unable to attend the Regina "Celebration of Life," but will be with you in spirit.
Jean Holowaty, Lumsden, SK
Karlene Faoth
September 1, 2011
Whenever I saw Simon, brief encounters over four decades, I felt myself in the presence of a visionary. Thank you, Simon, for your shining spirit and good work.
Greg, Kathy & Vezina Family
September 1, 2011
Imagine... being in the happy place Simon is in now.
We will all come to be with you soon our friend.
The beings in this Dimension will all evolve sooner now, because of your spirit, energy and life. God Speed. We love you Simon.
To the Justin and Micah and the rest of his family, he is better now. We love you all too.
Greg, Kathy, Alex and Kristin Vezina.
Lowell Monkhouse
September 1, 2011
A wonderful man who I will miss. The world is a poorer place without him. Micah, Justin, Cheryl, Wanda, Helen and Casper please accept my sincere condolences. Lowell
Susan Driscoll
August 29, 2011
Justin and Micah
I was so sorry to hear of your father's passing. My loving thoughts and prayers are with you both. I was your nanny, working for Simon in Ottawa, 1980-82. Many fond memories of you all. Peace and love. xx
Lona Hegeman
August 29, 2011
Veel sterkte toegewenst aan de de Jong familie - ook namens Andreas Tesfaye
August 29, 2011
August 29, 2011
Micah, Justin and Family,
I am so sad to hear of Simon's passing.
The planet is a lonelier place without him. An artist, idealist, activist, always a seeker of wisdom, knowledge and spirituality, Simon taught me and informed my life in significant ways. Our paths crossed many times, and in many places over the years. Godspeed Simon. You now know all that you have been seeking. When I close my eyes, I see your smile; I hear your laughter.
G.V.Shankar
Tom, Rose-Hélène, and Chloé Morton-Gagné
August 29, 2011
Dear Cas, Allyson, and family,
We are very sorry to hear about the death of your brother. Even when expected, it is hard. I am sure that his spirit and memory will stay with you for a long time.
Nos condoléances.
Tom, Rose-Hélène, and Chloé
Martin Dohm-Smidt
August 29, 2011
Dear Helen!
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole de Jong family as you grieve and celebrate the fruitful life of Simon. He truly made a difference.
With love
Martin
Sue Godfreyson
August 29, 2011
To Helen and all the de Jong family, our thoughts go to you as you celebrate the life of Simon. May his memories support and comfort you all through the days ahead.
Betty & Ton Notten
August 29, 2011
Dear Helen, Cas, Allyson and family,
We want to condole you with the passing of Simon. In the four times we travelled to Canada, and especially to Simons mother Dirkje, we dit meet him.
My wife Betty and I have been deeply found by the death of Simon. We knew that he was for a long time seriously sick, but nevertheless his dead came unexpected for us.
The family De Jong is very tested the last years. We wish them much strength and hope that the good memories which You and we to Simon have, can help thereby.
Betty and Ton Notten
Doetinchem
The Netherlands
E. Kathleen Segal (O'Reilly-Scanlon)
August 29, 2011
Helen, Micah, Justin and Family,
I am so sad to hear of Simon's passing.
The planet is a lonelier place without him. An artist, idealist, activist, always a seeker of wisdom, knowledge and spirituality, Simon taught me and informed my life in significant ways. Our paths crossed many times, and in many places over the years. Godspeed Simon. You now know all that you have been seeking. When I close my eyes, I see your smile; I hear your laughter.
Nina Ocejo
August 28, 2011
It was a pleasure knowing Simon. He was always an inspiration as he told of his adventures and interests. He surely embraced life, appreciated people and nature.He contributed so much. My sincere condolences to all the DeJong family & Cheryl. I'll hold you all gently in my heart as you once again say farewell to another dear family member.
Dave Lawson
August 28, 2011
Cas, Allyson, Helen and family
I was sorry to hear of Simon's passing. You have had a tough few years and have seen some incredible people leave us. I have fond memories of the house on Rae Street in Regina and the people who grew up in such an interesting environment not to mention the cast of characters I had the pleasure to meet there in the 6o's.
John Burton
August 28, 2011
When Simon first spoke up as a member the CCF Youth Movement, people said, there is a man to watch. He is going to do many worthwhile things. The prediction came true. Simon made a valuable contribution to his community and to Canada. He will be missed by everyone who knew him
John Burton.
August 28, 2011
Sorry to hear of Simon's passing. Simon was a good man to know. Parliament and politics was a better place because of his efforts. As a traveling sales rep that covered some of Simon's riding I came across people who were helped by Simon and his staff sorting through bureacracy. A non glamourous part of the job of an MP that Simon took seriously.
Jeff Jones
Duval SK
Svend Robinson
August 27, 2011
Our sincere condolences to Simon's family and loved ones...
Simon was a respected and much loved colleague and friend. He cared passionately about the future of our planet and his fellow human beings, and loved his work as an MP.
Take care and stay strong...
and be inspired to action by Simon's example and that of Jack Layton.
Starla Anderson
August 27, 2011
Simon lived as rich a life as anyone could possibly hope for - a father, a son, a brother, a friend, a lover, a husband, a partner . . . he had deep connections with people. He had so much to give because he embraced life fully.
I first met Simon when he lived with my sister Cheryl Anderson and her son Sky as well as Simon's sister Greta, the mother of his sons Wanda and their two sons Micah and Justin, Ray Chouinard and Patsy Bears, and others at Celebrate House on 7th Avenue in Vancouver back in the 1970s. All of them were committed to learning about new kinds of relationships - extended family that loved and supported one another through happy times and sad.
Here it is 2001 and this extended family is still embraced, now in the sorrow of having lost a much loved family member. My heart goes out to all of you but especially to my sister Cheryl who has given all of her life these past ten months to helping Simon through his journey during his transition from life on Earth to the beyond.
As a medical doctor Cheryl's knowledge was so valuable but as someone who has loved Simon since she met him through her friends at the University of Regina so many years ago, her love was priceless. And this love was returned to her in full.
Cheryl and Simon made an agreement that every day of their final journey together would have joy and laughter and the agreement was kept to the end.
It was a joy for me to share time with Cheryl and Simon during these last few months. I love you both - your spirits are strong and will remain so . . . you have both given so much strength and courage to others and we are here for you now on both sides of the great divide. Starla
August 27, 2011
A lifetime of richness. Rip Peterman
Valetta Young
August 27, 2011
As a friend of the de Jong family, I would like to express my sympathies to you all. Although I have not seen the de Jong family for sometime, I think of them often. My heart goes out to each and every one of you - take care of each other.
Simon van der Maal
August 27, 2011
We met eachother only a few times in our lives. Last time on Vancouver island at the birthday of your mother in october 2007. It was nice to met you and the rest of the family. I was impressed by you and the way talk to us in Dutch and English. You showed a great education and understanding of politics and other subjects. We wish your family the help of God and a lot of people to help you to overcome this lost.
Simon and Jannie van der Maal
Shiralee Markel
August 26, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
August 26, 2011
Simon was always a positive voice for change within the NDP Federal caucus. A friend whenever you needed someone to talk an issue over or to seek some quidance. Always happy and upbeat. Always willing to lend a helpful hand. A joy to be around. We are going to miss you Simon but we are never going to forget such a warm and positive colleage and friend. Our heart and thoughts are with with you ole buddy, Nelson Riis
joel scott
August 26, 2011
Simon was one of the best Aries I've ever shared a laugh with..as Duncan said..you could get right in behind the pictures he painted for us...including the pictures he painted with his political passion and you can see out from behind them and view the world like in no other way. Simon , Greta and Helke you were all my friends and the way your lives were woven into our community , country and our party was a beautiful thing to watch and experience. As McCartney said Simon.."Ram On" give your heart to somebody soon right away"
Marilyn Alexander
August 26, 2011
Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your father.
I got to know Simon when he served as my member of parliament for the Regina constituency and I was struggling with maintaining support for my children from a spouse who had moved far away in order to avoid paying maintance...
Simon called me personally to advise me what I could do in order to get out of province cooperation. His advise worked out and I was at the time the first woman in the province of Saskatchewan to get support from British Columbia courts. They told me I had set president.
Simon was a kind and caring individual, who legitimately believed in honesty and fairness for all. A great humanitarian and it was a privilege to rub shoulders with him.
I am certain that some what your father was made of rubbed off on you. I am also sure that you will sadly miss him every day. I hope that you find some solice in the fact that his life did not go wasted and that he helped a lot of people while he was here.
Marilyn Alexander
August 26, 2011
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Bob Lyons
August 25, 2011
Our thoughts and wishes go out to our friends in the de Jong family on the loss of our friend Simon. His intellect, curiosity, courage and graciousness will be sorely missed by all who knew him. The world is a little less compasionate place at the passing of a great and free spirit. Elaine and I are grateful for having known Simon, and for the many good works which he initiated. We will miss him.
Greet van der Maal
August 25, 2011
Lieve Helen, Casper en Allison en verdere Familie.
Wat een groot gemis en verdriet overkomt jullie.Hans en ik zijn heel erg dankbaar dat wij jullie allemaal in oktober 2007 hebben ontmoet en met elkaar de verjaardag van tante Dick hebben gevierd.
Heel veel kracht en wijsheid toegewenst en een zoen van Greet en Hans.
Ann Dohm-Smidt
August 25, 2011
Elicia, Elena, Helen and Family,
Much love to you all...I have so many fond "family" mamories Simon and all the rest of you. He was a gentle soul with a huge heart and that lives on in all of you!
Love you all,
Ann, Caitlyn and Victoria
Anne Fehr
August 25, 2011
I am sorry that Simon has passed. My sincere condolences to his family. I met Simon in the late seventies and worked on his first two federal campaigns. He will be missed.
Al Sherbin
August 25, 2011
To Micah and Justin, and the whole de Jong family, my sincerest condolences. My heart and thoughts are with you.
Simon left a great legacy in you, his two sons, who display the same great spirit of generosity and graciousness of giving that he has shown. You two 'apples' have not fallen far from the tree.
I hope that everyone that Simon has touched in spirit and with his words can also show the same compassion to others with a helping hand or a comforting word.
God bless.
August 25, 2011
I remember Simon and his brother Hielke when we were in school. They were full of energy and were well liked. My condolences to all of you. He accomplished so much.
Sincerely,
Leslie Chase Blair,
Alexandria, VA
Dell Wolfson
August 25, 2011
Dear Casper and Allyson, Micah and Justin, Cheryl, Helena and June: I was always happy to be part of a journey with Simon that begin in Regina at university, through the art school and the various progressive movements of the times in which we were participants, to later, through the NDP - in Ottawa when I was there, in Toronto when Simon passed by, in Vancouver when I visited. We shared good moments, great discussions, debates and activities with friends and colleagues. Simon was a curious person, intelligent and thoughtful, considerate and driven with ideas, then placed into action, all towards the goal of making the world in which we live a better place for all of us. His was and remains an illusive but joyful quest, an unfinished journey; his legacy allows us to honour that quest with our own work towards a better world. In sympathy,
Dell Wolfson
John Dufort
August 25, 2011
Simon was a gentle, thoughtful, and noble man. He was a great Canadian and world citizen, and he cared in a genuine way for his fellow human beings, for the community and for the environment. His passing saddens my heart.
Gordon MacMurchy Jr.
August 25, 2011
Our sincere condolences to the de Jong family from the MacMurchy family
richard joly
August 25, 2011
hello, I was asked by Yoko to convey this message
"I am deeply saddened by Simon Leendert de Jong's passing at this time
of our world chaos. However, I feel fortunate that the memory of his
good spirit will always be with us. With the deepest respect and
love, Yoko Ono Lennon"
Ian Waddell
August 25, 2011
Simon was a friend and colleague. I first met Simon in Kool Aid days in Vancouver and then again in the House of Commons. We both even ran for NDP leader in 1989. What a trip that was! I talked to him recently about is approaching death. He was a spiritual man and he had just returned from the US where he sought solace amongst native practices. He also told me he was "curious" about what it would be like. That was very Simon. Goodbye my friend Ian Waddell
Carolyn Stuart
August 24, 2011
Our prayers are with all of Simon's family. Over the years we were good friends with his Mother. Our children all loved her. We also met Simon and remember him as open and intelligent. This is a great loss.
CATHERINE THOMPSON
August 24, 2011
I FIRST MET MR.DEJONG IN 1988 AND ED TCHORZEWSKI WAS RUNNING IN REGINA DEWDNEY FOR THE NDP...SUCH A NICE AND HUMBLE MAN HE REMINDED ME ALOT OF WHAT IT WAS LIKE TO BE A TRUE CANADIAN...........MR. LAYTON IS PROBABLY UP THERE WAITING TO HAVE A CONVERSATION AND ASKING HIM WHY ARE YOU UP HERE WITH ME.............LIKE THE SAYING GOES ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG..........................RIP MR.DEJONG RIP.............TAKEN TOO SOON FROM THE ONES WHO LOVED YOU THE MOST......................
Barbara Wareing
August 24, 2011
My sincere condolences to the de Jong family and especially to you Helen, my school chum on the loss of Simon. A big brother to be proud of Helen. Simon will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched and nurtured while he was here.
August 24, 2011
Dear Casper and Allyson,
I was very sad to read of Simon's passing. Although I never personally knew him, he certainly made a lasting impression as an important player in our Regina days. I have fond memories of the many "Simon" stories and accomplishments. My thoughts are with you at this, yet another, sad time.
Janet Lawson
Judy Bates
August 24, 2011
Dear Casper and Allyson,
I'm thinking of you and sending love from my heart ...and John's. I didn't know Simon personally but remember him from Regina campus days. He has left a beautiful and pioneering legacy. I'm wondering if he and Jack Layton will soon have a "chat" ??
With love,
August 24, 2011
August 24, 2011
Simons family can be proud that Simon was a man ahead of his time, a visionary raising issues far in advance of others.
I first met him when I was a first year university student and he was President of the Student Council. Later I had the honor of spending many years in Parliament with him. He was kind, generous and compassionate - a true friend. We shall miss him. His spirit lives on.
- Lorne Nystrom
Keith Davey
August 24, 2011
My condolences to Simon's family:
Simon and I attended grade eight together at Connaught School here in Regina. For some reason we both were not recommended so had to write the exams to pass into high school. We studied together at my house while our classmates were out enjoying the summer. That was in 1957. Since then we both went our separate ways but I have followed his career over the years with interest.
Don Campbell
August 24, 2011
Simon, I remember from working at Greta's Restaurant back in '79 what a well-spoken and considerate man you were, so engaged in political issues. I am grieved to learn of your passing.
Jill Sangster
August 24, 2011
Dear Casper, Allyson, Helen and family,
It was with sadness that today I heard of Simon's death.
I did not have the pleasure of knowing him but reading of his accomplishments, I see there were many which must make you proud.
Please know you are in my thoughts.
Warm regards.....
Gailene Fenwick
August 24, 2011
Helen and Casper -- My condolences to you and your families. Whenever mention was made of Simon in the news, I always read the articles and thus knew of his many accomplishments. The last time I saw Simon was at the Lumsden Beach Reunion in 1997. We had a very good visit, and he also spent time talking with my mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Gailene
Marilyn Hazen
August 24, 2011
Helen: My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. Remembering you and your family has kept me following articles about Simon's accomplishments and I do remember him with kind thoughts. And memories you will keep forever. Take care of you,;
Your Rae Street school buddy, Marilyn
Tom & Barb Chadwick
August 24, 2011
Dear Casper and Allyson....we were very sorry to hear of Simon's passing.
Al Vance
August 24, 2011
Simon: you were a gentleman through and through. I feel richer for having known you.
Elicia Johncey
August 22, 2011
We love you Uncle Simon. Thank you for sharing your gentle, wise, kind spirit with us for so long. Until we meet again...
Love Leashy, Andy and Bethany
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